P r o 8 8 4 HB
USER‘S
GUIDE
8
® C A M C O R D E R
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Assistance
We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any
questions, call:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty...... 800-283-6503 (Pages 72-73)
Customer Service..................................... 800-336-1900 (Page 71)
Accessories......................................... 800-338-0376 (Pages 61-67)
Table of Contents
Contents.............................................1-2
• Location and Function of
Remote Buttons ........................12-13
Powering Your Camcorder
• Using the Adapter/Charger ...............14
• Using the Rechargeable Battery
• Charging and Refreshing................15
• Inserting and Removing .................16
• Care and Storage ............................17
• Using Alkaline Batteries
• Inserting..........................................18
• Battery Level Indicator .....................19
• Using the Optional Car Cord
First-Time Operation
• Assistance............................................3
• Unpack Camcorder and
Accessories ......................................3
• Attach the Adapter/Charger ................4
• Insert a Cassette ..................................4
• Attach the Lens Cap Cord
and Adjust the Handstrap.................5
• Turn on the Camcorder .......................6
• Adjust Eyepiece Focus Control...........7
• Start and Stop Recording ....................7
• Play Back What You Have
Adapter...........................................20
• Using the Optional Car Cord
Adapter/Charger.............................21
Recorded ..........................................8
• Review the Camcorder’s
Video Cassettes
Operating Controls .......................8-9
• Erase Protection ................................22
• Recording and Playback Speed and
Times..............................................22
• Inserting and Removing
Cassettes.........................................23
• Cassette Care and Storage.................23
Remote Control
• Install Remote Battery ......................11
• Remote Sensor ..................................11
(continued on next page)
1
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Table of Contents
Recording Features
Optional Color Enhancement
• Tally Light.........................................24
• Quick Review....................................24
• Edit Search ........................................25
• Tape Positioning ...............................25
• Time Remaining Display ..................26
• Program AE (Auto Exposure)...........26
• Date Search .......................................27
• Date and Time Display
Light.........................................50-51
Playback
• Viewfinder Playback.........................54
• Playback Features
• Set the Date and Time ....................28
• Record the Date and Time,
Date, or Date and Title.................29
• Viewfinder
• Visual Searching ............................55
• Playback on TV (or VCR) with
AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks ..........56-57
• Playback on TV without
• Eyepiece Focus Control .................31
• COLOR, TINT, and BRIGHT
Controls........................................31
• Tilt Adjustment ..............................31
• Displays in Viewfinder................32-33
• Focusing
Audio and Video Inputs............58-59
Optional Accessories.....................61-67
• Accessory Order Form.................65-67
• Auto Focus .....................................34
• Manual Focus .................................35
• 16X9 Mode .......................................37
• Time Counter with Memory
Trouble Checks.............................68-69
Limited Warranty.........................72-73
Index (Alphabetical).....................75-77
Stop...........................................40-41
• Titler
• Creating a Title...............................42
• Recording Titles .............................43
• Audio/Video Dubbing .................44-45
• Synchro Edit ................................46-47
• Recording from VCR or
TV Monitor...............................48-49
2
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First-Time Operation
This section describes only the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to
record. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.
Assistance
The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter.
Camcorder Exchange Warranty . . . . .800-283-6503
Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-336-1900
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-338-0376
1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories.
• Save the packing materials and box in case you ever need to ship or store your
camcorder.
• The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any are missing or
appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
WARNING: NICKEL
CADMIUM BATTERY
MUST BE DISPOSED
OF PROPERLY.
STOP
A/V DUB PAUSE
DISPLAY RECORD
T
RESET
ZOOM
W
PUSH
TITLE S.EDIT
Rechargeable 6-Volt Battery
ON
OFF
Stock No. BV060
Remote Control
Stock No. 221363
Camcorder: Model Pro884HB
Caution:
Lens Cap Cord
Stock No. 221393
Shoulder Strap
Stock No. 221378
Do not use this
adapter/charger
for any other
purpose other
than charging
the BV060,
POWER
CHARGE
REFRESH
BB150, or
DC Cable
Stock No. 221364
AC Adapter/Charger
Stock No. 221361
BB060 battery
pack or supply-
ing power to the
camcorder.
Audio/Video Output Cable
with S-VHS Connector
Stock No. 221395
Cautions: Lithium cell batteries. Must be disposed of properly.
Never handle punctured or leaking cells. May cause burns or
personal injury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if
swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for
emergency treatment.
The lithium cells used in these devices may explode resulting in a
fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble,
heat above 212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
Clock and Remote Cells
3-Volt Micro Lithium
Cells – such as CR2025
are available from most
local drug stores and
camera shops. Use of
other cells present a
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cells, and never short
circuit the + and – sides of the cells.
risk of fire or explosion.
3
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First-Time Operation
2. Attach the adapter/charger.
Adapter/Charger’s
DC Cable
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
Adapter/Charger
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
16
X
9
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
S
T
O
P
POWER
CHARGE
REFRESH
DC OUTPUT
DC IN 6V Jack on Side
of Camcorder
Jack
POWER Indicator
To AC 100-240V,
50/60 Hz.
Since the battery must be charged
before it can be used the first time,
attach the adapter/charger.
• Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
an operating outlet.
• Details are on page 14.
• Attach one end of the adapter/
charger’s DC cable to the DC
OUTPUT jack on the adapter/
charger.
Notes: Details on using the rechargeable
battery are on page 16.
You can also use six alkaline “AA”
batteries to power the camcorder. Details
are on page 18.
• Attach the other end of the cable to
the DC IN 6V jack on the camcorder.
3. Insert a cassette.
EJECT Switch
EJECT
EIS
FADE
16X9
S
TITLE
PLAY
Safety Tab
F.F.
Cassette Door
PUSH Here
PUSH
Tape Window
C. Gently close compartment door by
pressing on the area labeled PUSH
until the door clicks into place.
A. Slide EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
B. Fully insert cassette with tape
window and safety tab facing out.
Details are on page 23.
4
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First-Time Operation
Lens Cap
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
EIS
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
Attach Lens
Cap Here
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
Handstrap Cover
Handstrap
4. Attach the lens cap cord and adjust the handstrap.
A.Remove the lens cap from the
camcorder.
C. Unsnap the handstrap cover and
open the adjustment strap.
D.Put the lens cap cord over the
adjustment strap.
Lens Cap
E. Put your hand in the handstrap.
Lens Cap Cord
F. Pull the adjustment strap to
tighten and close the strap.
B. Attach the lens cap cord to the
lens cap.
G.Snap the cover shut.
Lens
Cap
H.Attach the lens cap to the
handstrap.
Lens Cap
Cord
Handstrap
Adjustment
Cover
Strap
(continued on next page)
5
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First-Time Operation
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
EIS
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
Thumb Trigger
5. Turn on the camcorder.
• Press and hold the small button on
CAM/OFF/VCR while sliding it to
CAM or VCR.
The CAM/OFF/VCR switch tells the
camcorder whether you want to
record (CAM), play back tapes (VCR),
or turn off the camcorder’s power
(OFF).
Important Note: The TAPE indicator
will flash in the viewfinder when there is
moisture in the camcorder. Remove the
tape and wait an hour before inserting the
tape in the camcorder again.
Some of the controls operate
differently depending on the position
of the CAM/OFF/VCR switch.
6
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First-Time Operation
Eyepiece Focus Control
Electronic Viewfinder in Operating Position
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
EIS
Tally Light
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
Thumb Trigger
6. Adjust eyepiece focus control
for your vision.
7. Start and stop recording.
Start and stop recording by pressing
and releasing the thumb trigger. You
do not have to hold the thumb trigger
to record. The tally light will light
and REC will appear in the viewfinder
when the camcorder is recording.
A. Rotate viewfinder into a
comfortable viewing position.
B. If the image in the viewfinder is
blurry, adjust the eyepiece focus
control for your vision.
Notes: If you do not record within five
minutes, the camcorder will automatically
shut off to prevent excessive tape wear. If
this happens, press the thumb trigger.
Details are on page 31.
Any material recorded on the tape will
automatically be erased if you record
over it.
(continued on next page)
7
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First-Time Operation
8. Play back what you have recorded.
A. Press thumb trigger to stop recording.
B. Place CAM/OFF/VCR in VCR.
C. Press REW to rewind the tape.
D. Press PLAY to play back the tape in the viewfinder.
E. Press STOP when you are finished.
F. Details on viewfinder playback are on page 54.
9. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
EIS (Electronic Image
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
Stabilizer) Button
EJECT
Switch
Viewfinder
FADE Button
Eyepiece Focus Control
EJECT
EIS
FADE
16X9
FOCUS
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DISPLAY
Stereo
Microphone
COLOR
PLAY
F.F.
EDIT
SEARCH
STOP
TINT
BRIGHT
REW
PUSH
Cassette
Viewfinder Controls
16X9 Button
Compartment
PUSH
DATE/TITLE Button
FOCUS F (Far) and
(Also DISPLAY Button)
N (Near) Buttons
PLAY Button (Also Titler Button)
F.F (Fast Forward) and EDIT
SEARCH Button
(Also Titler Button)
REW (Rewind) and EDIT SEARCH
Button (Also Titler Button)
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
STOP Button
(Also Titler Button)
8
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First-Time Operation
9. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
Power Zoom Buttons
T = Telephoto
W = Wide Angle
INST.
ZOOM
Button
Accessory
Shoe
Lens
CAM/OFF/VCR
Switch
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
Tally Light
(On Front)
EIS
Remote
Control
Sensor (On
Front)
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
Install Charged
Thumb
Trigger
Battery or Six
Alkaline “AA”
Batteries
Handstrap
Clock Cell
Holder
DC IN 6V Jack Located
Behind Small Cover (Connect
Adapter/Charger Here)
Audio/Video In/Out Connector
(Located Behind Small Cover)
Audio/Video Out Jacks
(Located Behind Small Cover)
9
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High-Band 8mm Video Recording System
High-band 8mm is a video recording format based on the original 8mm recording
system. Special circuitry inside the camcorder produces high-quality recordings when
using the high-band 8mm recording system.
For full compatibility with existing 8mm equipment, the camcorder is capable of
recording and playing back either standard or high-band 8mm. The camcorder
automatically selects standard or high-band 8mm during recording or playback.
8
Display in Viewfinder
To Record High-Band 8mm
To Play Back High-Band 8mm
To record in the high-band 8mm format,
To play back high-band 8mm, place the
8
8
use cassettes labeled with the
symbol.
cassette labeled with the
the camcorder.
symbol in
8
8
The
indicator will appear in the
The
indicator will appear in the
viewfinder and the camcorder will record
in high-band 8mm.
viewfinder and the camcorder will
automatically play back high-band 8mm.
Notes: If you use a standard 8mm cassette,
you will record in standard 8mm.
A cassette recorded using the high-band 8mm
format cannot be played back on a standard
8mm camcorder or VCR.
Sharing Your 8mm Cassettes
If you want to share your 8mm cassettes with friends not having a high-band 8mm
camcorder or VCR, you have two options.
1. Record in high-band 8mm and then
copy the tape on a VCR. See pages
56-57 for instructions on tape
copying.
2. Record in standard 8mm with your
camcorder by using a standard 8mm
cassette.
Note: This method lets you have a
quality cassette for your use and still
have a copy to share.
8
10
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Remote Control
Install Remote Battery
Battery Holder
Pin Hole
Back of Remote
1. Turn remote over, insert a pin or
straightened paper clip in the pin hole,
and remove the battery holder.
Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Must be
disposed of properly. Never handle a
punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns
or personal injury.
2. Insert battery so positive (+) terminal
faces up.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can
cause death or injury if swallowed. If
swallowed, consult a physician immediately
for emergency treatment.
3. Replace battery holder.
Notes: Never place anything heavy on top of
the remote control or lay it upside-down.
The lithium cell used in this device may
explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if
mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble,
heat above 212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
Replace battery when camcorder fails to
respond to remote.
Remove the battery from the remote if it will
not be used for a month or more. This will
prevent possible damage from battery
leakage. If leakage occurs, wipe up the liquid
inside the compartment and replace
the battery.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell,
and never short circuit the + and – sides of
the cell.
Remote Sensor
PUSH
Note: The camcorder may not respond to the
remote control if the camcorder’s remote
sensor is exposed to direct sunlight or strong
artificial light.
The remote operates the camcorder by
infrared light, so it is protected from
electrical and sound interference.
However, the remote must be aimed
directly at the camcorder’s remote
sensor. There cannot be any obstructions
between them.
11
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Remote Control
Location and Function of Remote Buttons
A brief description of the functions of the remote buttons is given here. Some buttons
perform the same function as the corresponding controls on your camcorder. You can
use whichever is more convenient at the time.
Note: An RCA VCR that is set to respond to VCR 2 on the VCR’s remote may respond to this
remote when it is used to operate the camcorder.
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
1
REW (Rewind) Button
F.FWD (Fast Forward)
Button
7
8
9
STOP
2 STOP Button
PLAY Button
A/V DUB PAUSE
3
4
5
6
A/V (Audio/Video)
DUB Button
PAUSE/RECORD
Button
DISPLAY RECORD
DISPLAY Button
T
ZOOM Buttons
10
11
ZOOM
RESET
RESET Button
W
TITLE S.EDIT
ON
OFF
TITLE ON/OFF
Button
S. (Synchro) EDIT Button
1 REW (Rewind) Button
• Press and hold REW when the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
is in CAM to visually search the
recorded material in reverse. When
you release REW, the camcorder will
stop searching and prepare to record
at that point on the tape.
• Press REW when the camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in VCR to
rewind the tape.
• Press and hold REW during playback
(camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
in VCR) to visually search the tape in
reverse at a higher speed. Release
REW to return to normal playback.
12
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Remote Control
is in CAM to visually search the
recorded material forward. When you
release the F.FWD button, the
camcorder will stop searching, and
prepare to record at that point on the
tape.
2 STOP Button
• Press STOP when the camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in VCR to
stop playback, rewinding, or fast
forwarding.
• STOP has no effect when the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
is in CAM. To stop recording, press
PAUSE/RECORD.
8 PLAY Button
• Press PLAY when the camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in VCR to
begin playback.
3 A/V (Audio/Video) DUB Button
• Press and hold PLAY when the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
is in CAM to view the recorded
material at normal speed. When you
release PLAY, the camcorder will
stop playing and prepare to record at
that point on the tape.
• Use this button to record new audio
and video in place of existing audio
and video on a recorded tape.
• Details are on pages 44-45.
4 DISPLAY Button
• Press DISPLAY to turn the time
counter’s memory-stop feature on
and off.
9 PAUSE/RECORD Button (Same as
Thumb Trigger on Camcorder)
• Press and release PAUSE/RECORD
when the CAM/OFF/VCR switch is
in CAM to start and stop recording.
5 RESET Button
• Press RESET to set the time counter
back to “0:00:00”.
• Press PAUSE/RECORD during
playback (camcorder’s CAM/
OFF/VCR switch in VCR) to produce
a stop-action picture. Press
PAUSE/RECORD again to return to
normal playback.
6 TITLE ON/OFF Button
• Press TITLE ON/OFF to display and
remove the titler graphics from the
viewfinder.
• Details are on pages 42-43.
10 ZOOM (W and T) Buttons
7 F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button
• Press and hold W ZOOM to move the
lens in the wide-angle direction.
• Press F.FWD when the camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in VCR to
fast forward the tape.
• Press and hold T ZOOM to move the
lens in the telephoto direction.
• Press and hold F.FWD during
playback (camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch in VCR) to
visually search the tape forward at a
high speed. Release F.FWD to
return to normal playback.
11 S. (Synchro) EDIT Button
• Use this button to synchro edit.
• Details on pages 46-47.
• Press and hold F.FWD when the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
13
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder
The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder
directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240
volts, 50/60 Hz.
Adapter/Charger’s
DC Cable
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
Adapter/Charger
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
S
T
O
P
POWER
CHARGE
REFRESH
DC OUTPUT
DC IN 6V Jack on Side
of Camcorder
Jack
POWER Indicator
To AC 100-240V,
50/60 Hz.
To Attach the Adapter/Charger
To Remove the Adapter/Charger
1. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the
wall outlet.
is in OFF.
2. Connect the DC cable’s small plug
into the DC OUTPUT jack on the
adapter/charger.
2. Remove the DC cable from the DC IN
6V jack on the camcorder.
3. Attach the other end of the cable to the
Using an Optional Plug Adapter
DC IN 6V jack on the camcorder.
An optional plug adapter may be required
in some countries.
4. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
the nearest AC outlet (100-240V,
50/60Hz).
5. If the adapter/charger is properly
connected, its POWER indicator will
light.
Optional AC
Plug Adapter
AC 200-240V
1. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
the AC plug adapter.
Note: The battery level indicator has no
meaning when using the adapter/charger to
power the camcorder.
2. Plug the AC plug adapter into an
AC outlet.
14
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Rechargeable Battery to Power Your Camcorder
The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Initial charging will
take approximately one hour. When fully charged, the battery should supply about
45-55 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).
Note: Use the small marker switch on the top of the battery as a reminder to help you remember
to recharge the battery. It has no other function.
Caution:
When a battery
Align Arrows
POWER Indicator
is attached to
the adapter/
charger, do not
turn them
CHARGE Indicator
POWER
CHARGE
REFRESH
upside down.
The battery
may fall off and
REFRESH Button
and Indicator
be damaged or
To AC Wall Outlet
cause injury.
100-240V, 50/60 Hz
Charging and Refreshing the Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the adapter/charger, remove its plug.
Notes: The battery will provide longer
performance if you refresh it before each
charging. Refreshing and charging will
take approximately 4-1/2 hours.
1. Align the reference arrow on the
battery with the arrow on the
adapter/charger.
2. Hold the battery flush against the
adapter/charger, and slide it in the
direction of the arrow.
If POWER on the adapter/charger starts
flashing, remove the plug from the outlet
for about 30 seconds. Then reattach it. If
after several attempts, POWER continues
to flash, your battery cannot take a charge
and must be replaced.
3. Plug the adapter/charger into the
nearest AC outlet (100-240V,
50/60Hz).
POWER will also flash if a hot battery is
attached to the adapter/charger. Attaching
an extremely hot battery is not recom-
mended. Allow it to cool down before
attaching it.
4. The adapter/charger’s CHARGE
indicator will light. After the battery
has been used, press REFRESH to
refresh the battery before recharging it.
The REFRESH indicator will light.
After refreshing is completed, the
CHARGE indicator will light and the
battery will charge. When the
5. Slide the charged battery off the
adapter/charger and insert it in the
camcorder as shown on the next page.
CHARGE indicator turns off, the
battery is fully charged.
(continued on next page)
15
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Rechargeable Battery to Power Your Camcorder
Insert the Battery
5. Close the battery compartment cover.
1. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
Hold the OPEN lever and align the
tabs on the cover with the tabs on the
compartment.
is in OFF.
2. Lift the OPEN lever and pull up the
battery compartment cover.
OPEN Lever
Tabs
3. Insert the battery into the battery
compartment aligning the reference
marks.
Reference
Marks
Notes: The OPEN lever must be open for
the cover to close.
Remove the battery from the camcorder
when not in use.
4. Press and hold the battery while
sliding it in the direction of the arrow.
Remove the Battery
4. Remove the battery from the
compartment
1. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
is in OFF.
5. Close the battery compartment cover.
Hold the OPEN lever and align the
tabs on the cover with the tabs on the
compartment.
2. Lift the OPEN lever and pull up the
battery compartment cover.
3. Slide the battery in the direction of the
arrow until you hear a click.
16
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Powering Your Camcorder
Proper Care and Storage of Your Battery
The battery will provide better service
and longer performance if you refresh it
before charging and store it at normal
room temperature.
After repeated chargings and use, the
operation time will gradually decrease.
When operation time becomes too short
to be useful, it is time to replace the
battery.
Do not operate the battery at temperatures
below 14°F (–10°C) or above 95°F
(35°C). The battery may be damaged if
operated at temperatures above 122°F
(50°C). Operation time will decrease at
extremely low temperatures.
Charge the battery at a temperature of
32°F-95°F (0°C-35°C) to prevent
damage.
Battery Safety Precautions
Do not short the battery’s terminals.
Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery.
There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Use the battery only with specified adapter/chargers
and camcorders.
ATTENTION: NICKEL CADMIUM BATTERY
MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. THE PRODUCT
THAT YOU HAVE PURCHASED CONTAINS A
RECHARGEABLE BATTERY. AT THE END OF ITS
USEFUL LIFE, UNDER VARIOUS STATE AND LOCAL
LAWS, IT MAY BE ILLEGAL TO DISPOSE OF THIS
BATTERY INTO THE MUNICIPAL WASTE STREAM.
CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL SOLID WASTE
Ni - Cd
OFFICIALS FOR DETAILS IN YOUR AREA FOR
RECYCLING OPTIONS OR PROPER DISPOSAL.
17
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using Alkaline “AA” Batteries to Power Your Camcorder
The camcorder can be powered by six alkaline dry-cell “AA” batteries. The
operation time of the camcorder depends on the type of alkaline batteries used.
Insert the Batteries
5. Close the battery compartment cover.
Hold the OPEN lever and align the
tabs on the cover with the tabs on the
compartment.
1. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
is in OFF.
2. Lift the OPEN lever and pull up the
battery compartment cover.
OPEN Lever
Tabs
3. Lift the two partitions in the battery
compartment.
Partitions
Notes: The OPEN lever must be open for
the cover to close.
The camcorder may not operate properly
in cold temperatures.
The camcorder and battery level indicator
may not operate properly when the
batteries need to be replaced.
4. Insert six alkaline batteries into the
compartment matching the polarities
(+ and –) on the batteries to the battery
compartment as shown below.
Using a light will shorten the operation
time of the batteries.
Remove at least one battery if you will not
be using the camcorder for a long period
of time to extend the batteries useful life.
(continued on next page)
18
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Powering Your Camcorder
Safety Precautions When Using Alkaline Batteries
Do not short, disassemble, heat, or throw the batteries into the fire.
Batteries become warm during and after use. Use caution when removing them.
Use “AA” alkaline batteries only during their recommended lifetime.
Remove at least one battery if you will not be using the camcorder for a long period of time to
extend the batteries useful life.
Do not use manganese batteries to power the camcorder.
To reduce the risk of battery leakage or an explosion:
• Make sure battery is inserted with correct polarity.
• Remove the batteries from the camcorder before storing it.
• Do not use old and new batteries at the same time or mix brands of batteries.
• If the batteries leak, remove the batteries and carefully wipe up the fluid.
• Keep the terminals clean. Use a dry cloth to wipe any dirt off the terminals.
Checking Battery Power (Battery Level Indicator)
The battery level indicator shows how much recording time is left on the
rechargeable or alkaline batteries. This indicator will not be recorded on the tape.
Battery
Level
Indicator
Display in Viewfinder
• When the battery is fully charged, the
Caution: The camcorder will shut off
display shows
in the viewfinder.
when the battery reaches empty. The
battery or “AA” batteries should still
eject the cassette when you slide
• After several minutes, the display shows
.
EJECT. If it does not, do not attempt to
force the cassette compartment open.
This will damage the camcorder.
• When the battery level display
starts flashing, it is time to recharge (or
replace) the batteries.
Note: The battery level indicator may not
operate properly when using “AA” batteries
that need to be replaced.
19
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Optional Thomson Car Cord Adapters
The optional DCC06 car cord adapter and DCC80 car cord adapter/charger allow you to
power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV. They
convert 24- and 12-volts to a 6-volt output. The DCC80 can also charge the battery that
came with your camcorder and the BB150 battery.
Notes: Consult instructions enclosed with the DCC06 or DCC80 for details.
The vehicle’s engine does not have to be turned on when using the car cords.
When using the car cords, the battery level indicator has no meaning.
Optional accessories are shown on pages 61-67.
Cautions: The DCC06 and DCC80 are designed to be used only with vehicles having
negative ground electrical systems.
Do not use any other car cords. They will damage your camcorder.
Using the DCC06 Car Cord Adapter to Power the Camcorder
Car Cord Adapter
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
To Cigarette Lighter
Socket
D
I
S
P
L
AY
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
To DC OUTPUT
ST
O
P
To DC IN 6V Jack
Adapter/Charger’s DC Cable
4. Insert plug of car cord adapter into
vehicle cigarette lighter’s socket.
1. Make sure the camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in OFF.
5. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR switch while sliding it
in CAM.
2. Connect the DC cable’s small plug
into the DC OUTPUT jack on the car
cord adapter.
3. Attach the other end of the cable to the
DC IN 6V jack on the camcorder.
20
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Powering Your Camcorder
Use DCC80 Car Cord Adapter/Charger to Power Camcorder
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
Car Cord Adapter
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
Cigarette Lighter
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
Socket
DC
OUTPUT
Jack
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
P O W E R
S
T
O
P
DC IN 6V Jack
Adapter/Charger’s DC Cable
1. Make sure the camcorder’s
CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in OFF.
4. Insert plug of car cord adapter/charger
into vehicle cigarette lighter’s socket.
2. Connect the DC cable’s small plug
into the DC OUTPUT jack on the car
cord adapter/charger.
5. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR switch while sliding it
in CAM.
3. Attach the other end of the cable to the
DC IN 6V jack on the camcorder.
Using DCC80 Car Cord Adapter/Charger to Charge a Battery
CHARGE Indicator Light
C H A R G E
P O W E R
Cigarette
Lighter Socket
Optional DCC80
Car Adapter/Charger
3. The CHARGE indicator will light while
the battery is being charged. When the
CHARGE indicator turns off, the
battery is charged.
1. If the DC cable’s plug is attached to the
adapter/charger, remove it.
2. Attach the battery as shown.
21
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Video Cassettes
We recommend our cassettes be used with your camcorder. Use of poor
quality or damaged tapes can contaminate the video heads, resulting in snow
or no picture during playback. Head cleaning is not covered under warranty.
It is considered normal maintenance. Playing a new tape for approximately
30 minutes will often satisfactorily clean the heads and improve your picture.
Erase Protection – Safety Tab
You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous
recording, just record over it.
8
To Record Again
Open Safety Tab
(Red Disappears)
To Prevent Erasure
Close Safety Tab
(Expose Red)
Safety Tab
Recording and Playback Speed and Times
The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP). Listed below are the
maximum SP recording times for some popular 8mm cassettes.
Cassette
Recording Time
P6-15
15 Minutes
20 Minutes
45 Minutes
60 Minutes
90 Minutes
2 Hours
P6-20
P6-45
P6-60
P6-90
P6-120 or P6-120HB
P6-150
2 1/2 Hours
22
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Video Cassettes
Inserting and Removing Cassettes
EJECT Switch
EJECT
EIS
FADE
16X9
S
TITLE
PLAY
Safety Tab
F.F.
Cassette Door
PUSH
Tape Window
PUSH
Caution: Insert the cassette with the safety tab
and tape window facing out. The cassette should
slide easily in the compartment. Do not force it.
1. Slide EJECT to open the cassette
3. Gently close compartment door by
pressing on the area labeled PUSH
until the door clicks into place.
compartment.
2. Fully insert cassette with tape window
and safety tab facing out.
4. When you are finished with a cassette,
rewind it, remove it from the
camcorder, and label it.
Cassette Care and Storage
• Store cassettes vertically in their
protective cases at normal room
temperatures. Excessive heat or cold
may damage your cassettes.
• Close the safety tab to prevent
accidental erasure.
• Do not use a cassette if it has been
damaged or exposed to moisture.
• Keep the cassette away from strong
magnetic fields such as electric motors
and other devices.
• Do not touch or cover the small holes in
the cassette or use cassettes with
damaged or spliced tape.
23
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Recording Features
PUSH
Tally Light
Stereo
Microphone
Stereo Microphone
Tally Light
The stereo microphone picks up the
sound during a recording. It is more
sensitive to sounds coming from the
direction the lens is pointed.
The tally light on the front of the
camcorder lights when the camcorder is
recording.
Quick Review
Flying Erase Head
Press and release EDIT SEARCH
(REW on remote) when the camcorder is
in record pause to review the last few
seconds of a recording.
A separate erase head is mounted on the
spinning headwheel (hence the term
“flying”).
The camcorder will play back the last
few seconds of the recording, return the
tape to its previous position, and return to
record pause.
This allows you to make clean edits
without the “glitches” or “rainbow noise”
that may occur.
Note: Do not press and hold EDIT SEARCH
or the camcorder will go into edit search.
24
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Recording Features
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
REW Button
F.FWD
STOP
Button
STOP Button
PLAY
Button
A/V DUB PAUSE
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
PLAY
Button
DISPLAY RECORD
OPEN
F
O
C
US
16
X
9
F
T
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
ZOOM
RESET
P
L
A
Y
EDIT SEARCH
and REW
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
W
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
TITLE S.EDIT
ST
O
P
ON
OFF
Button
STOP
Button
EDIT SEARCH
and F.F Button
Edit Search
Tape Positioning
Edit search uses EDIT SEARCH
,
When the CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in
EDIT SEARCH (REW and F.FWD on VCR and the camcorder is stopped, you
remote), and PLAY to precisely position
the tape while the camcorder is in record
pause.
can quickly fast-forward or rewind the
tape.
• Press F.F (F.FWD on remote) to fast-
forward the tape. Press STOP to stop
fast-forwarding.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH
visually search the recorded tape in
reverse.
to
• Press REW to rewind the tape to the
beginning. Press STOP to stop
rewinding.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH
to
visually search forward on the recorded
tape.
• Press and hold PLAY to view the
recorded tape at normal speed.
Release the button for the camcorder to
return to record pause at that point on the
tape.
25
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Recording Features
Time-Remaining Display
The time-remaining display shows the amount of recording or playback time
left on the tape in the camcorder.
The display will display “– – – – – –” for
approximately ten seconds when you first
start playing or recording a tape while the
camcorder calculates the time remaining.
After the time is calculated, the time-
remaining indicator appears in the
viewfinder.
• TAPE END flashes when there is
approximately three minutes of
recording time left on the cassette.
• TAPE END appears briefly during
recording when the end of the cassette
is reached.
Note: Once time remaining has been
calculated, it will automatically be updated
and readily available as long as the same tape
remains in the camcorder.
When the cassette is full,
appears.
The
changes in size to indicate
how much recording or playback time is
left on the cassette.
Program AE (Auto Exposure)
Program auto exposure automatically selects the shutter speed and adjusts the iris
according to the shutter speed.
AE:60
Auto Exposure Display
in Viewfinder
The AE indicator for the shutter speed
selected (1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180,
1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000,
1/1500, 1/2000, or 1/4000 second)
appears in the viewfinder.
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Recording Features
Date Search
You can search for the beginning and end of recordings you make on a
certain day.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
REW
F.FWD
REW Button
F.FWD
STOP
PLAY
Button
STOP Button
PLAY
Button
A/V DUB PAUSE
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
DISPLAY RECORD
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
DISPLAY
Button
T
DISPLAY
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
RESET
ZOOM
DC IN
6V
Button
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
AY
W
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
TITLE S.EDIT
S
T
O
P
ON
OFF
REW Button
STOP
Button
F.F Button
To Date Search
The clock cell battery must be installed
and the date and time set. The cassette
must remain in the camcorder for this
feature to operate.
remote) to search for the place you
stopped recording.
When the camcorder locates the
beginning or end of the recording, it
will enter the stop mode. SEARCH
disappears from the viewfinder.
1. Attach a power supply and place the
CAM/OFF/VCR switch in VCR.
2. Repeatedly press DISPLAY to display
SEARCH in the viewfinder.
Notes: The cassette must remain in the
camcorder for this feature to function. If you
insert a cassette and start recording, this
location will be the starting position for that
day.
SEARCH
This feature will only operate on cassettes
recorded on this camcorder.
To Stop Date Search
3. If you are in the middle of your
recording for that day, press REW to
search for the place you started
Press STOP to stop a search in progress.
recording that day or F.F (F.FWD on
27
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Date and Time Display
Set the Date and Time
The clock cell must be installed as shown on page 30 before you set the clock.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
PLAY
Button
OPEN
F
O
C
US
16
X
9
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
REW Button
S
T
O
P
STOP Button
DATE/TITLE Button
F.F Button
1. Attach a power supply to the
4. Then press STOP. The flashing cursor
camcorder. Press and hold the small
button on the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
while you slide it in CAM.
will move to the next part of the
display.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have
entered the correct month, day, year,
hour, minute, and AM or PM.
2. If the date and time display does not
appear in the viewfinder, press
DATE/TITLE.
6. After you select AM or PM, press
DATE/TITLE to remove the flashing
cursor from the viewfinder and start
the camcorder’s internal clock.
3. A flashing cursor lets you know which
part of the display you are setting.
Press the F.F or REW button
repeatedly until the correct month
appears.
Correct the Date or Time
To correct the date or time after the clock
has been started, simultaneously press
DATE/TITLE and STOP. Then correct
the date or time using REW, F.F,
and STOP.
Hours
Minutes
AM or PM
12:00AM
1/1/1995
Month
Day
Year
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Date and Time Display
Recording Date and Time, Date, or Date and Title on Your Tape
The time and date, date only, or date and title can be recorded on your tape. Whenever
one of the displays appears in the viewfinder, it will be recorded. The camcorder also
has auto date and auto title features.
The clock cell must be installed and the clock set.
Repeatedly Press
DATE/TITLE
AUTO
12:00AM
11/18/1995
11/18/1995
Auto Date
Date and Time
No Display
TITLE
11/18/1995
11/18/1995
Date Only
Auto Title
To Select Display to Record
• Select TITLE to automatically
record the title and date for ten
seconds at the beginning of the
recording.
1. Repeatedly press DATE/TITLE to
select the display you want to record.
• Select date and time to continuously
record the date and time.
• Select date only to continuously
record the date.
• Select AUTO to automatically
record the date for ten seconds at the
beginning of the recording.
• Select no display if you do not want
any of the displays recorded.
29
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Date and Time Display
Install the Clock Lithium Cell
1. Make sure camcorder is turned off, and
remove any power supply attached to
the camcorder.
4. Place the cell holder into the
camcorder.
2. Pull out the cell holder.
3. Insert the clock cell into the cell holder
with the “+” terminal facing out.
Note: Remove the battery from the
camcorder if it will not be used for a month
or more. This will prevent possible
damage from battery leakage. If leakage
occurs, wipe up the liquid inside the
compartment and replace the battery.
Lithium Cell Battery
Cell Holder
Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Must be disposed of properly. Never
handle a punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal injury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed.
If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or
chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above
212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the +
and – sides of the cell.
30
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Viewfinder
The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture
seen by the lens.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
Eyepiece
Focus
Control
Viewfinder
EJECT
EIS
FADE
16X9
FOCUS
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DISPLAY
COLOR
PLAY
F.F.
EDIT
SEARCH
STOP
TINT
BRIGHT
REW
PUSH
Eyepiece Focus Control
The eyepiece focus control lets you set the focus of the viewfinder for your personal
vision. If you wear eyeglasses, you can probably operate the camcorder without them.
1. Attach a power supply to the
camcorder. Press and hold the small
button on the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
while you slide it to CAM.
screen displays (such as the time
counter).
The eyepiece focus control does not
affect the focus of the picture actually
recorded by the camcorder.
2. Adjust the eyepiece focus control for
your vision. Focus on one of the on-
COLOR, TINT, and BRIGHT Controls
These small controls are set at the factory and should require no adjustment. If
adjustment is needed, use a small plastic screw driver to prevent damaging the
miniature controls.
Tilt Adjustment
Caution: Do not force the viewfinder to
rotate completely around. This will damage
the viewfinder and/or the camcorder.
Caution: When carrying the camcorder with
the shoulder strap, rotate the viewfinder down
to prevent possible damage to the viewfinder
from bumping against your body as you move.
180˚ Tilt
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Displays in Viewfinder
Displays in Viewfinder
Manual Focus
1
2
AE Shutter Speed
Time Counter
with Memory
8
AE:1000
FOCUS
TAPE
0:00:35M
3
4
Fade
9
Time
Remaining
Electronic
Image Stabilizer
16X9
Battery Level
Indicator
16X9
ZOOM
T
10
5
8
ZOOM,
I.ZOOM, and
Zoom Level
11 Hi-Band 8mm
6
12
13
TAPE, NO TAPE,
or TAPE END
A/V DUB
REC
10:30AM
W
11/18/1995
Time and Date
Status
7
Several displays that aid in the operation of the camcorder appear in the viewfinder.
The only display that is recorded on the tape when it appears is the date display.
1 Manual Focus
•
appears for zoom fade.
• FOCUS appears when manual focus
is turned on.
• Details are on page 38.
4 Electronic Image Stabilizer
• No indicator appears when auto
focus is turned on.
•
appears when the electronic
image stabilizer is turned on.
• Press both FOCUS buttons together
to turn auto focus on and off.
• Press EIS to turn the electronic
image stabilizer on and off.
2 AE (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed
• Details are on page 39.
Displays
5 16X9
The shutter speed selected by the
camcorder appears here.
• Select 16X9 to make a recording that
will be played back on a 16 x 9 wide
screen TV.
3 Fade
Press FADE to select white, wipe, or
zoom fade. It is not recorded on the
tape.
6 ZOOM, I.ZOOM, and Zoom Level
Indicator
• The zoom level indicator appears
during zooming.
•
•
appears for white fade.
appears for wipe fade.
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Displays in Viewfinder
• ZOOM appears when you press T
and zoom in the telephoto direction
more than twelve times.
11 High-Band 8mm
This indicator appears when the
camcorder is recording or playing
back in high-band 8mm.
• I.ZOOM appears when you press
INST. ZOOM to enlarge the picture
1.5 times.
• This display is not recorded on
the tape.
7 Status
12 TAPE, NO TAPE, and TAPE END
The following status displays appear.
• REC appears during recording.
• TAPE flashes when you try to
record and the safety tab has been
closed.
•
appears during fast forwarding,
appears during rewinding.
and
• TAPE flashes when a tape is
inserted in the camcorder and
moisture is present or the tape is
damaged. Moisture may develop
when the camcorder is moved from
a cold area to a warm area.
Remove the tape and wait an hour
before reinserting. If the tape is
damaged, remove the tape and
replace it.
•
appears during record pause.
• A/V DUB appears during
audio/video dubbing.
8
Time Counter With Memory Stop
• The counter shows the amount of
elapsed recording or playback time.
• Press DISPLAY on the remote to
turn memory stop on or off. An M
appears with the time counter when
memory stop is turned on.
• NO TAPE flashes when you try to
record and there is no cassette in
the camcorder.
Note: During playback or play pause,
you can press DISPLAY on the cam-
corder to turn memory stop on and off.
• TAPE END flashes when there is
approximately three minutes of
recording time left on the cassette.
• Details are on pages 40-41.
• TAPE END appears briefly during
recording when the end of the
cassette is reached.
9 Time Remaining
displays the amount of
•
recording or playback time left on
the cassette in the camcorder.
13 Time and Date
Press DATE/TITLE repeatedly to
display the time and date, auto date,
auto title, or date only when the
camcorder is in record or record
pause.
• Details are on page 26.
10 Battery Level Indicator
• This indicator shows the amount of
time left for the rechargeable
battery (or alkaline “AA”
batteries).
• These displays will be recorded on
the tape whenever they appear in
the viewfinder.
• Details are on page 19.
• Details are on pages 28-29.
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Focusing Your Camcorder
Power Zoom Buttons
“T ” and “W”
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
EIS
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
FOCUS F (Far) and
DISPLAY
N (Near) Buttons
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
Auto Focus
Auto focus will operate on the telephoto
“T” side from approximately 3.3 feet to
infinity.
The camcorder will focus automatically
whenever FOCUS does not appear in the
viewfinder.
Auto focus will operate on the wide-
angle “W” side 3/8 inches from the lens
surface to infinity.
• If FOCUS appears, press FOCUS F
and N at the same time to turn on auto
focus.
The camcorder will automatically focus
on the subject in the center of the
viewfinder.
34
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Focusing Your Camcorder
Manual Focus
Under certain conditions, such as those
listed, you may need to focus manually.
3. Press and hold either FOCUS button
until the subject is clearly focused.
1. Press FOCUS F and N at the same
time to turn on manual focus. FOCUS
appears in the viewfinder.
4. When you are finished, Press FOCUS
F and N at the same time to turn on
auto focus. FOCUS disappears from
the viewfinder.
2. Press zoom button T to zoom in on
your subject.
To maintain proper focus throughout
the zoom range, zoom in on your
subject before adjusting the focus.
Conditions that May Require Manual Focus
The following conditions may require the use of manual focusing during recording.
•
• A subject not in the center of the
viewfinder.
When a subject has a close foreground
and a background far away.
• Subjects with shiny surfaces or sharp
angles.
• When two subjects at different
distances overlap.
• Recording in low-light situations.
• Recording through a window.
• A subject with distinct horizontal
stripes or small pattern.
Macro Focus
The macro-focus feature lets you focus on objects as close as 3/8 inch from the
camcorder lens.
1. Make sure FOCUS does not appear in
the viewfinder. If it does, press
FOCUS F and N at the same time to
remove it.
Notes: Zooming is not possible when using
macro focus. To change the size of the
subject, move the camcorder’s lens closer or
farther away from it.
For best results, increase illumination when
recording using macro focus.
2. Press and hold zoom button “W” until
the lens is completely zoomed out.
3. Position the subject in the center of the
viewfinder.
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Zooming
The motorized zoom lens allows you to zoom in (enlarge the image from 1-12 times)
for close-ups or out for wide-angle shots.
Digital zoom lets you zoom in on a subject with magnification up to 24 times.
Instant zoom lets you magnify the picture 1.5 times regardless of the position of the
zoom buttons.
Power Zoom Buttons
W
T
=
=
Wide Angle
Telephoto
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
STOP
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
A/V DUB PAUSE
E
I
S
INST.
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
DISPLAY RECORD
ZOOM
Button
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
T
D
I
S
P
L
AY
R
E
W
ZOOM Buttons
E
D
I
T
RESET
ZOOM
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
S
T
O
P
W
TITLE S.EDIT
ON
OFF
Using INST. (Instant) ZOOM Button
Using Power Zoom Buttons
• Press INST. ZOOM to magnify the
subject 1.5 times regardless of the
position of the power zoom buttons.
• Press “W” to move the lens in the wide-
angle direction.
• Press “T” to move the lens in the
telephoto (close-up) direction.
• Press INST. ZOOM again to turn off
instant zoom.
The zoom level indicator appears briefly
in the viewfinder.
• I. ZOOM appears in the viewfinder
during instant zoom.
ZOOM
T
I.ZOOM
W
When the zoom ratio goes above twelve
times, ZOOM appears in the viewfinder.
Note: Some deterioration of the picture may
occur when using instant zoom.
Note: Some deterioration of the picture may
occur with zoom ratios above twelve.
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16 X 9 Mode
The new 16 x 9 TV format provides a 30% wider picture than conventional TVs of the
same height. The 16 x 9 recording mode lets you make recordings compatible with
this new format. When the 16 x 9 mode is activated, the camcorder records black bars
at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect. This is known
as “letter box” recording. When played back on a standard size TV, black bars appear
in the picture.
Do not use this recording mode unless you have a 16 x 9 TV.
New 16 x 9 TV Screen
Standard Shape TV Screen
Normal Recording
Recording Using 16X9
To Record in 16 x 9 Format
2. To turn off the 16X9 mode, press 16X9
again. No display will appear in the
viewfinder.
1. Press 16X9 to select 16X9. The
following display will appear in the
viewfinder.
16X9
Indicator
16X9
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Fading In and Out of Scenes
You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out of
scenes. Both the picture and sound will gradually appear or disappear.
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
FADE
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
S
T
O
P
Thumb Trigger
Select the Type of Fade
Repeatedly Press FADE
You can select white, wipe, or
zoom fade.
• Select white fade to fade in
and out from a white screen.
appears in the
viewfinder.
• Select wipe fade to fade in
and out from a black screen.
appears in the
Wipe Fade
White Fade
viewfinder.
• Select zoom fade to fade in
and out while zooming.
appears in the
viewfinder.
No Fade
Zoom Fade
Fade Out
Fade In
1. During recording, repeatedly press
1. Place the camcorder in record pause.
FADE to select the fade mode.
2. Repeatedly press FADE to select fade
Note: The last fade mode used will appear
the first time you press FADE.
mode.
Note: The last fade mode used will
2. Press the camcorder’s thumb trigger
(PAUSE/RECORD on remote) to stop
recording. The picture and sound will
gradually disappear.
appear the first time you press FADE.
3. Press the thumb trigger (PAUSE/
RECORD on remote) to start
recording. The picture and sound
will gradually appear.
38
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Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS)
The electronic image stabilizer (EIS) corrects slight shaking of images
during some recording modes.
• While zooming in on a distant object.
•
When recording an approaching small object.
• When recording while walking or riding in a vehicle.
• When recording through a vehicle’s window.
EJECT
EIS
FADE
16X9
FOCUS
F
N
DATE/TITLE
EIS Button
DISPLAY
PLAY
F.F.
EDIT
SEARCH
REW
PUSH
STOP
To Use EIS Button
1. Press EIS to display
in the
2. Press thumb trigger
viewfinder.
(PAUSE/RECORD on remote) to start
and stop recording.
3. When you are finished, press EIS to
turn off EIS and remove
viewfinder.
from the
Notes: If you use a telephoto accessory lens,
EIS may not operate correctly.
It is normal to have a small change in picture
size when EIS is turned on.
EIS Indicator
in Viewfinder
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Time Counter With Memory Stop
The time counter shows actual time elapsed when recording or playing back a
tape. It quickly locates the end of recorded segments.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
EIS
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
N
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
REW Button
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
STOP Button
F.F Button
DISPLAY Button
1. Press DISPLAY on the remote to turn
on memory stop. An “M” appears
behind the time counter.
To Use Time Counter
For example, you recorded a 10-minute
segment. Later, you want to locate the
end of your recording. Insert the cassette
and fast-forward the tape until the time
counter reads “0:10:00”.
0:00:00M
Memory-Stop Feature
The memory-stop feature helps you
locate a certain point on the tape. When
memory stop is turned on, the tape will
stop automatically during rewind or fast
forward when the time counter reaches
“0:00:00M”.
Time Counter With Memory
Stop Turned On in Viewfinder
Note: During playback or play pause, you
can also press DISPLAY on the camcorder
to turn memory stop on and off.
40
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Time Counter With Memory Stop
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
REW Button
F.FWD Button
STOP
A/V DUB PAUSE
PAUSE/RECORD
Button
DISPLAY RECORD
DISPLAY Button
T
ZOOM
RESET
RESET Button
W
TITLE S.EDIT
ON
OFF
Notes: If you rewind the tape farther back
than a counter reading of “0:00:00”, a minus
will appear in front of the counter.
2. Locate the place on the tape you want
to return to and press RESET on the
remote to set the time counter to
“0:00:00M”.
The time counter is automatically reset to
“0:00:00” each time a cassette is inserted.
3. Continue to record or play the tape.
When you want to return to the place
you marked, press the thumb trigger on
the camcorder (or PAUSE/RECORD on
the remote) to stop recording or the
STOP button to stop playing back the
tape.
4. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch
is in VCR, and then press REW. The
tape will rewind to the time counter
reading of “0:00:00M”.
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Titler
The titler can store a title page in memory that can be displayed and recorded at any
time. The built-in character register contains 47 characters for creating titles on two
lines with up to 16 characters per line.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
F.FWD
Button
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
REW Button
T
STOP
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
STOP Button
PLAY Button
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
A/V DUB PAUSE
D
AT
E
/T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
A
Y
PAUSE/
RECORD
Button
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
DISPLAY RECORD
S
T
O
P
PLAY Button
REW Button
T
RESET
ZOOM
Thumb Trigger
W
TITLE S.EDIT
DATE/TITLE Button
ON
OFF
TITLE
ON/OFF
Button
F.F Button
STOP
Button
Creating a Title
1. Attach a power source and slide the
CAM/OFF/VCR switch to CAM or
VCR.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until you have
completed the title.
Note: To correct a character, press STOP
to place the cursor over it and then press
F.F (F.FWD on remote) or REW to enter
the correct character.
2. Press TITLE ON/OFF on the remote to
display the title graphics.
Note: If the CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in
CAM, pressing DATE/TITLE on the
camcorder will also display the title page.
If you want to delete a character, press
F.F (F.FWD on remote) or REW until the
blank space appears.
3. Press STOP to move the flashing
7. Press TITLE ON/OFF on remote to
store the title and remove the title
display from the viewfinder when you
are finished.
cursor to the place you want to begin.
4. Select the first character by pressing
F.F (F.FWD on remote) or REW until
the character you want appears. See
the “Chart of Characters” on the next
page for the characters available in the
titler’s register.
Important Note: Remember to remove the
title graphics from the viewfinder for normal
recording.
5. After you have selected the first
character, press STOP to move the
flashing cursor to next position.
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Titler
Chart of Characters in Titler’s Register
A B C D E F G H I J K L M
N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
? ’ . / , - ; : < > ! (Blank Space)
Recording Titles on a Tape in the Camcorder
1. Attach a power source and slide
6. Press TITLE ON/OFF on remote to
CAM/OFF/VCR to CAM.
remove the titler graphics from the
viewfinder. The camcorder will now
record as normal. If you do not want
to continue recording, press the thumb
trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on remote)
to stop recording.
2. Locate the place on the tape where you
want to record the title.
Note If you record a title on a pre-
recorded tape, the audio and video will be
erased where the title is inserted. There
will also be a three-to-four second pause of
blank tape before the existing audio and
video return.
3. Place the camcorder in record pause.
Note: You can also use the AUTO TITLE
feature to automatically record the title and
date for ten seconds when you begin
recording. Press DATE/TITLE to display
TITLE before starting to record.
4. Press TITLE ON/OFF on remote to
display the title in viewfinder.
5. Press the thumb trigger (PAUSE/
RECORD on remote) to start recording
the title.
Recording Titles While Copying a Tape on Another VCR
1. Connect the camcorder to a VCR as
6. Start VCR recording and camcorder
shown on pages 56-57.
playing.
2. Attach a power source and slide
7. When you see the place on the tape
where you want to record the title,
press TITLE ON/OFF on remote to
display the title in the viewfinder.
CAM/OFF/VCR to VCR.
3. The title will appear when you press
TITLE ON/OFF on the remote.
8. When you are finished recording the
title, press TITLE ON/OFF on remote
to remove the title from the
viewfinder.
4. Press TITLE ON/OFF on remote to
remove the title from the viewfinder.
5. Insert the cassette you want to copy
into the camcorder and a blank cassette
with safety tab into the VCR.
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Audio/Video Dubbing
A/V (audio/video) DUB on the remote lets you record new audio and video from
another VCR or camcorder to a previously recorded tape in the camcorder. You
will need an optional VAA008 audio/video input cable shown on page 63.
Notes: The source for audio and video when dubbing is the signal coming through the
audio and video plugs of the audio/video input cable.
If you connect only the video plug of the audio/video input cable to the VCR, you will
have no sound on the dubbed portion.
If you connect only the audio plugs of the audio/video input cable to the VCR, the
camcorder will not dub.
Back of
Stereo VCR
1
White and Red Audio Plugs
L
AUDIO
OUT
Optional VAA008
Audio/Video
Input Cable
R
VIDEO
OUT
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
2
Yellow Video Plug
3
F
O
C
U
S
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
or
D
I
S
P
L
AY
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
S
T
O
P
Y-Adapter
(Such as AH25)
Back of
Mono VCR
1
White and Red
Audio Plugs
Audio/Video
Connector
(Behind Small
Cover)
AUDIO
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
3
2
Yellow Video Plug
Optional VAA008
Audio/Video
Input Cable
Installation
1 Attach the input cable’s white plug to
the L AUDIO OUT jack and the red
plug to the R AUDIO OUT jack of the
VCR.
3 Attach the plug on the other end of the
input cable to the audio/video in/out
connector located behind the small
cover on the side of the camcorder.
(Match the tabs on the plug with the
notches on the camcorder connector.
Do not force the plug.)
Note: If your VCR only has one AUDIO
OUT jack, you may need a Y-adapter.
2 Attach the input cable’s yellow plug to
the VIDEO OUT jack on the VCR.
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Audio/Video Dubbing
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
F
A
D
E
E
I
S
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
1
6
X
9
F
N
PLAY
Button
D
AT
E
/T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
STOP
P
LA
Y
D
IS
P
L
AY
RE
W
STOP Button
E
D
I
T
F
.F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
PLAY Button
S
T
O
P
A/V DUB PAUSE
A/V (Audio/
Video) DUB
Button
PAUSE/
RECORD
Button
DISPLAY RECORD
Thumb Trigger
STOP
Button
T
RESET
ZOOM
W
TITLE S.EDIT
ON
OFF
To Audio/Video Dub on the Camcorder
1. Slide camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR
disappears and A/V DUB remains
switch to VCR.
in viewfinder.
2. Insert the tape you want to dub on,
press PLAY, and locate a place on the
tape a few seconds before where you
want the dubbing to begin.
7. Press STOP when you want the
dubbing to stop.
Notes: If you want to stop dubbing at a
certain point on the tape, turn on the
camcorder’s memory-stop feature. Set the
time counter to “0:00:00M” at the point
where you want the dubbing to stop. The
camcorder will automatically stop dubbing
when it reaches “0:00:00M”.
3. Place the camcorder in play pause
exactly where you want to begin
dubbing using the thumb trigger
(PAUSE/RECORD on remote).
4. Press and hold A/V DUB on remote,
and then press PLAY to place the
camcorder in AV dub pause. A/V
You can record new audio and video from the
camcorder’s built-in microphone and camera.
Remove the input cable from the camcorder.
Follow steps 1 through 4 above, and then
press thumb trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on
remote) to start dubbing. To stop dubbing,
press STOP.
DUB
appears in viewfinder.
5. Place the tape you want to dub from in
the VCR, locate the beginning of the
part you want to dub, and place the
VCR in play pause.
The camcorder will automatically enter the
stop mode to prevent excessive tape wear if it
remains in dub pause for more than five
minutes.
6. Start the VCR playing and press the
thumb trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on
remote) to start dubbing.
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Synchro Edit
Synchro edit allows your camcorder to control a VCR (one that has a compatible
PAUSE, EDIT, EDIT IN/OUT, or SYNC jack) while tapes are being copied from
the camcorder to the VCR. This is convenient when you want to copy only
selected segments from a previously recorded tape. An optional AVS80 synchro
edit cable shown on page 63 is required.
Note: Not all RCA VCRs have compatible synchro edit jacks.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
PLAY Button
FADE
EIS
OPEN
F
O
C
U
S
REW Button
16X9
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
F.F Button
P
L
A
Y
D
I
S
P
L
AY
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
STOP Button
S
T
O
P
Audio/Video In/Out Connector
(Located behind small cover)
Thumb
Trigger
Optional AVS80 Synchro Edit
Output Cable
Compatibility
Switch
Note: If your VCR has a single
(mono) AUDIO IN jack, connect
either the left or right audio plug.
AUDIO
IN
VIDEO
IN
EDIT
L
R
Back of VCR
Caution: The unauthorized recording of copyrighted material may
infringe the rights of others. Such recordings should not be made.
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Synchro Edit
4. Press S.EDIT on the remote to start the
camcorder playing and the VCR
recording.
F.FWD
Button
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
REW Button
Note: Pressing S.EDIT puts the
camcorder in review for several seconds
and then into playback.
STOP
STOP Button
PLAY Button
A/V DUB PAUSE
PAUSE/
RECORD
Button
5. Pressing REW, F.FWD, STOP, or
thumb trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on
remote) automatically puts the VCR
into record pause. This allows you to
search (forward or backward) or fast-
forward or rewind the tape in the
camcorder without disturbing the tape
in the VCR.
DISPLAY RECORD
T
ZOOM
RESET
W
TITLE S.EDIT
ON
OFF
S.(Synchro) EDIT
Button
• To search forward (or backward),
press F.F (F.FWD on remote) or
REW. Press PLAY to resume normal
playback. To begin copying again,
press the thumb trigger (PAUSE/
RECORD on remote) and then press
S.EDIT on remote.
To Synchro Edit
1. Connect your camcorder to a
compatible VCR as shown.
2. Prepare the camcorder to play back
the tape you want to copy.
• To fast-forward or rewind the tape,
press STOP then F.F (F.FWD on
remote) or REW. To begin copying
again, press STOP, then PLAY, then
the thumb trigger (PAUSE/RECORD
on remote). Then press S.EDIT on
remote to begin copying.
• Slide the CAM/OFF/VCR switch to
VCR.
• Insert the tape you want to copy.
• Press PLAY.
• Press the thumb trigger (PAUSE/
RECORD on remote) to place the
camcorder in play pause.
6. If you want to stop copying the tape at
a certain point, turn on the
3. Prepare the VCR to record.
• Turn on the VCR.
camcorder’s memory-stop feature, and
set the camcorder’s time counter to
“0:00:00M” at the point on the tape
where you want to stop copying.
When the camcorder reaches
“0:00:00M” on the tape, it will
automatically place the VCR in record
pause.
• Insert a blank tape into VCR.
• Press RECORD to put VCR in record
pause.
Note: If the VCR begins to record
instead of pausing – stop the VCR,
change the compatibility switch on the
AVS80 cable, and press RECORD on the
VCR again.
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Recording from VCR or TV Monitor
To connect your camcorder to a TV (or VCR) with AUDIO and VIDEO OUT jacks, you
will need an optional VAA008 audio/video input cable shown on page 63. If your TV
is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch
what the camcorder is recording on the TV.
Note: To monitor what the camcorder is recording when using the input cable, plug the
supplied audio/video output cable into the back of the audio/video input cable. Make sure
to connect the yellow video plug of the output cable to the VIDEO IN jack of the TV.
Details are on pages 56-57.
Back of
Stereo VCR
1
White and Red Audio Plugs
L
AUDIO
OUT
Optional VAA008
Audio/Video
Input Cable
R
VIDEO
OUT
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
2
Yellow Video Plug
3
F
O
C
U
S
F
N
D
A
T
E
/
T
I
T
L
E
DC IN
6V
P
L
A
Y
or
D
I
S
P
L
AY
R
E
W
E
D
I
T
F
.
F
.
S
E
A
R
C
H
S
T
O
P
Y-Adapter
(Such as AH25)
Back of
Mono VCR
1
White and Red
Audio Plugs
Audio/Video
Connector
(Behind Small
Cover)
AUDIO
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
3
2
Yellow Video Plug
Optional VAA008
Audio/Video
Input Cable
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Recording from VCR or TV Monitor
Installation
1 Attach the input cable’s white plug to
the L AUDIO OUT jack and the red
plug to the R AUDIO OUT jack of the
VCR.
3 Attach the plug on the other end of the
audio/video input cable to the
audio/video in/out connector behind
the small cover on the side of the
camcorder.
Note: If your VCR only has one AUDIO
OUT jack, you may need a Y-adapter.
(Match the tabs on the plug with the
notches on the camcorder connector.
Do not force the plug.)
2 Attach the audio/video input cable’s
yellow plug to the VIDEO OUT jack
on the TV or VCR.
How to Record from a Monitor TV (or VCR)
1. A.Camcorder connected directly to
TV monitor: Turn on the TV, and
tune it to the channel you want to
record.
2. Slide the camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR
switch to CAM, and insert a blank
cassette. Press the camcorder’s thumb
trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on remote)
to start recording.
B. Camcorder connected to a VCR
that is already connected to a TV:
Turn on VCR and select channel
you want to record, or place the
cassette you want to copy in the
VCR. If you are copying a tape,
press the PLAY button on the VCR.
3. Press the thumb trigger (PAUSE/
RECORD on remote) when you are
finished.
Note: If you want to see what is being
recorded, turn on the TV, and tune it to
the channel you normally use to see the
signal from the VCR.
Caution: The unauthorized recording of television programs
and other materials may infringe the rights of others.
49
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Optional Color Enhancement Light
An optional VLP04 color enhancement light shown on page 61 helps create
brighter, sharper pictures in very low light conditions. It lights subjects in
darkened areas or corrects unflattering shadows.
Light Power Connector
Light Power Button
Caution: Do not
touch the light power
connector when the
camcorder is on.
Tab
Accessory Shoe
1. Attach the rechargeable battery or
AC adapter/charger to power the
camcorder.
Notes: Turn on the light only when needed.
The power consumption of the light is much
more than that of the camcorder. When the
light is turned on, the operation time of the
rechargeable battery is reduced by more than
half.
2. Make sure the camcorder is turned
off. Then attach the light to the light
power connector and accessory shoe
as shown above.
Avoid bumping or shaking the light when in
use. The light’s bulb is sensitive when hot
and may burn out.
3. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR switch while placing
it in CAM.
Do not allow water to drop on the light when
in operation.
4. Turn on the light by pressing the power
button on the light.
Do not touch the bulb with your fingers. It
may shorten its service life.
Note: Press the button again to turn off the
light.
Make sure the front case of the light is
properly attached after removing it or
replacing a bulb.
5. To remove the light from the
camcorder, depress the light and
release the tab from the accessory
shoe. Then slide the light off the
camcorder.
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Optional Color Enhancement Light
Cautions: After using the light, be sure
to allow it sufficient time to cool down
completely.
Dangers: During operation and after
using the light, the front surface and
bulb of the light will be very hot. To
avoid burns, do not touch them.
Use only bulb (VLB04) when replacing
the bulb to reduce the risk of fire or
other hazards.
To prevent overheating, do not block
or cover the ventilation holes on the
color enhancement light.
Do not use the light when powering
your camcorder with the optional car
cord adapter because the car cord will
become very hot.
Never use the light in the vicinity of
explosives or highly flammable
materials.
Removing and Replacing the Light Bulb
1. Turn the case front counterclockwise to
remove it.
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it out
through the open case.
Bulb
Bulb Base
Notch
3. Hold the new bulb with a soft cloth and
align the notch in the rim of the bulb’s
base with the mark outside the socket.
Mark
Note: When replacing the light’s bulb, use
only Stock #VLB04 to reduce the risk of fire
and other hazards. See the installation
instructions packed with the replacement bulb
when replacing the bulb.
4. Reattach the case front by placing the
bulb in the hole of the reflective plate,
lining up the smaller raised mark (–) on
the front of the cover with the raised
mark (—) on the light’s case. Then turn
the front clockwise until the larger raised
mark (—) on the front cover aligns with
the mark on the case.
Raised
Marks (—)
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Attaching the Shoulder Strap
The shoulder strap packed with your camcorder is designed to let you carry the
camcorder from your shoulder and – when you are ready to shoot – bring the
camcorder to shooting position in one quick movement.
To Attach the Shoulder Strap
1. Thread each end of the strap through one of the attachment rings as shown below.
Attachment Ring
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
2. Thread each end of the strap back into its buckle. Pull on the strap and make sure it
is securely fastened before using the shoulder strap to support the camcorder.
Caution: When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder
strap, you may find it convenient to rotate the viewfinder
down. This helps prevent possible damage to the viewfinder
from bumping against your body as you move.
Removing the Lens Hood
The lens hood can be removed so you
can attach optional accessories.*
To remove the lens hood, turn it
counterclockwise.
*Optional accessories may be available from
camera shops and electronic supply stores.
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Camcorder Recording and Traveling Tips
• Do not bump or tap the microphone
while recording – this sound will be
recorded. Be aware of backgrounds.
Background details may show up as
visual “clutter”. Noises (especially TV
sets, household appliances, traffic, etc.)
can detract from the sound you record.
• Practice recording under a variety of
lighting conditions.
• Use the viewfinder to keep camcorder
level or scenes will appear “tilted”.
• Include close-up shots of individuals
when taping family outings or group
functions.
• Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks
and scenic attractions. Include people
and details. “Local color” gives travel
videos lasting appeal. Consider
recording a familiar or landmark scene
from an unfamiliar vantage point.
• Make a video recording of your home
and contents to store in a safe place in
case of fire or theft.
• Do not move the camcorder rapidly
from side-to-side while recording. A
steady, gradual “pan” avoids blurring
and “jitter”.
• Try to make sure indoor scenes are
well-lit. This improves picture quality
and color reproduction.
Holding The Camcorder
• When possible, rest your elbows on a
table or other stable surface to help
keep the camcorder steady.
• To film at different angles, raise the
viewfinder.
• Standing against a wall may give your
recordings more stability.
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the
viewfinder.
• Use an optional tripod for stable
images.
• Hold the camcorder horizontally. Keep
your feet slightly apart and upper arms
close to your body.
Traveling Tips
• Write down your camcorder’s serial
number and keep it separate from the
camcorder when traveling. If your
camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be
able to identify it.
• Carry your camcorder in a carrying
case when traveling. See page 61 for a
case especially designed for this
camcorder. An ordinary suitcase or
carry bag does not offer the protection
your camcorder needs. Treat your
camcorder as carry-on luggage to
protect it from rough handling.
• Use extra care to avoid damage to your
camcorder and accessories when
operating them at a beach or pool.
Spray, sand, and dust should be
avoided. If your lens has been exposed
to the elements, clean it only with
proper lens cleaning supplies.
53
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Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features
Viewfinder Playback
Viewfinder playback is the simplest way to watch tapes using the camcorder.
This method is generally used only to review scenes immediately after recording.
CAM/OFF/VCR Switch in VCR
T
INST.
ZOOM
W
FADE
EIS
OPEN
FOCUS
16X9
F
EJECT
N
Switch
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
PLAY
PLAY
DISPLAY
Button
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
REW
STOP
Button
F.F Button
STOP Button
Thumb Trigger
To Play Back a Tape Through the Viewfinder
3. Press the PLAY button.
1. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR switch while sliding
it in VCR.
4. Press the STOP button when you are
finished.
2. Insert the cassette you want to play.
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Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features
REW
F.FWD
PLAY
REW Button
F.FWD Button
STOP
STOP Button
PLAY Button
A/V DUB PAUSE
PAUSE/
RECORD
Button
DISPLAY RECORD
T
ZOOM
RESET
W
TITLE S.EDIT
ON
OFF
Playback Features
Stop-Action Pause
Visual Searching
• During playback, press the thumb
trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on remote)
to “stop the action” and view one frame
of the tape.
• During playback, press and hold F.F
(F.FWD on remote) or REW if you
want to visually search the tape in
forward or reverse.
Caution: Pause is designed for
momentary interruptions and should
not be used for an extended period of
time. If the camcorder remains in
pause for more than five minutes, it
will move the tape away from the
spinning heads to prevent excessive
tape wear.
• Release the button to return to normal
playback.
Notes: During pause and search operations, it
is normal for streaks to appear in the picture.
The sound is muted during special playback
operations.
• Press the thumb trigger
(PAUSE/RECORD on remote) again to
return to normal playback.
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Playback on TV or VCR Using AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks
To connect your camcorder to a TV or VCR using AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks, use the
audio/video cable that was packed with the camcorder. If your TV is already
connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the
camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.
Back of
Stereo VCR
or TV/Monitor
T
1
White and
Red Audio Plugs
INST.
ZOOM
W
L
OPEN
FOCUS
N
AUDIO
IN
F
DATE/TITLE
DC IN
6V
R
PLAY
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
VIDEO
IN
STOP
2
Yellow
Video Plug
S-VIDEO
IN
OR
Y/C IN
Audio/Video
Output Cable
(Supplied)
4
3
Audio/Video
Connector
(Behind Small
Cover)
S-Connector
or
1
White and Red
Audio Plugs
4
Back of
Y-Adapter
(Such as AH25)
Mono VCR
Audio/Video
Output Cable
(Supplied)
or TV/Monitor
AUDIO
IN
S-Connector
(No Connection)
VIDEO
IN
2
Yellow Video Plug
Installation
1 Attach the output cable’s white plug
to the L AUDIO IN jack and the red
plug to the R AUDIO IN jack of the
TV (or VCR).
3 Optional: If your TV has an
S-VIDEO IN connector, connect the
S-Connector on the output cable.
4 Attach the plug on the end of the
audio/video cable to the audio/video
connector located behind the small
cover on the camcorder. Match the
tabs on the plug with the notches on
the camcorder connector. Do not
force the plug.
Note: If your VCR only has one
AUDIO IN jack, you may need a
Y-adapter.
2 Attach the yellow video plug on the
audio/video cable to the VIDEO IN
jack on the TV or VCR.
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Playback on TV or VCR
Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR
1. A. Camcorder connected directly to
TV monitor: Turn on the TV and
tune it to the video input channel.
3. Press PLAY to begin playback.
During playback, use the features on
page 55.
B. Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the “line” or
“camera mode”. (If your VCR does
not have a “line” or “camera
4. To copy what the camcorder is
playing, place a blank cassette in the
VCR and start it recording.
5. Press STOP when you are finished.
mode”, consult the VCR owner’s
manual.) Operate the TV as you
normally do to see the signal
Notes: The corresponding buttons on the
remote control will operate the camcorder.
coming from the VCR.
Caution: The unauthorized recording of
television programs and other recorded
material may infringe the rights of others.
2. Attach a power supply and place the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch in
VCR. Insert the cassette you want to
playback.
Viewing What the Camcorder is Seeing (or Recording)
1. A. Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to
the video input channel.
2. Attach a power supply and slide the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
in CAM. Insert a cassette if you want
to record.
B. Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the “line” or
“camera mode”. (If your VCR does
not have a “line” or “camera
Note: When the camcorder is used as a
camera, turn the TV’s volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by
feedback.
3. Press the camcorder’s thumb trigger
(PAUSE/RECORD on remote) to begin
recording. You can watch what the
camcorder is seeing (or recording) on
the TV screen.
mode”, consult the VCR owner’s
manual.) Operate the TV as you
normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.
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Playback on TV without Audio/Video Inputs
To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio and video inputs, you need an
optional RF output adapter, such as CRF81 shown on page 63.
FOCUS
F
N
DATE/TITLE
PLAY
DISPLAY
REW
EDIT
F.F.
SEARCH
STOP
2
VHF
VHF
OR
Back of TV
Audio/Video In/Out
Connector
(Located Behind
Small Cover)
Optional 75/300 ohm
Transformer
(Such as AH011)
3
VHF Antenna
2
CH3/CH4
Switch
1
OR
OR
VHF Antenna
RF Output
Adapter
(Optional)
Optional 300/75 ohm
Transformer
(Such as 193983)
Installation
2 Attach the RF output adapter’s cable to
the VHF input on your TV.
1 Disconnect the VHF antenna from
your TV. Connect the antenna to the
ANT IN connector on the RF output
adapter if you leave the adapter
connected to the TV.
Note: If your TV has 300 ohm VHF
screw terminals, you will need an optional
75-300 ohm transformer, such as AH011.
3 Attach the RF output adapter’s plug to
the audio/video in/out connector under
the small cover on the side of the
camcorder.
Note: If your VHF antenna is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you will need an optional 300-75 ohm
transformer, such as 193983.
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Playback on TV without Audio/Video Inputs
Playback Operation
1. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF
4. Press PLAY to begin playback.
output adapter to CH3 or CH4.
During playback, use the features on
2. Turn on the TV, and tune it to
channel 3 or 4 – the same channel
you selected with the CH3/CH4
switch.
page 55.
5. Press STOP when you are finished.
3. Attach a power supply, and place the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
in VCR. Insert the cassette you want
to play back.
Note: The corresponding buttons on the
remote control will operate the camcorder.
Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording
1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel
3 or 4.
3. Attach a power supply and place the
camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch
in CAM. Insert the cassette you want
to record on.
Note: When the camcorder is used as a
camera, turn the TV’s volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by
feedback.
4. Press the thumb trigger on the
camcorder (PAUSE/RECORD on
remote) to start recording. You can
watch what you are recording on the
TV screen.
2. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF
output adapter to the same channel
you selected on the TV.
Normal TV Viewing
You can leave the RF output adapter
hooked up to the TV. Disconnect the
adapter’s plug from the camcorder or turn
off the camcorder’s power.
Note to Cable TV Installer
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the National
Electrical Code (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part I), that provides guidelines
for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected
to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.
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Care and Maintenance
• Keep dust and grit from entering the
cassette door. They are abrasive and
cause excessive wear both to the
camcorder’s recording/playback heads
and cassettes.
• Before handling your camcorder, make
sure your hands and face are free from
any chemical products such as suntan
lotion, as it may damage the finish.
• Do not operate the camcorder for
extended periods in temperatures below
40°F (4°C) or above 95°F (35°C). Do
not store the camcorder in temperatures
below -22°F (-30°C) or above 149°F
(65°C).
• Always replace the lens cap on the lens
when the camcorder is not in use.
• When the camcorder is not in use,
always remove the cassette and AC
adapter/charger or battery.
• Do not operate the camcorder in
extremely humid environments.
• The camcorder can be damaged by
improper storage or handling. Do not
subject the camcorder to swinging,
shaking, or dropping.
• Do not aim your camcorder at the sun
or other bright objects.
• Do not touch the lens with your fingers. • Do not leave your camcorder in direct
The oil from your skin can damage the
lens. Use lens-cleaning tissue and
commercially prepared cleaning solu-
tion designed for use on camera lens.
Improper cleaning may scratch the lens.
sunlight. Doing so could permanently
damage the camcorder’s internal parts.
Cleaning the Viewfinder
1. Rotate the eyepiece counterclock-
wise until it stops and pull it out to
remove it.
2. Use a soft non-abrasive cloth, swab,
or lens cleaning paper to clean the
miniature monitor and lens.
Raised
Marks
3. Insert the eyepiece with the raised mark
(.) at the center of the viewfinder. Push
in the eyepiece, and rotate it clockwise
until it locks into place.
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Optional Accessories
We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to
the fun of using your 8mm camcorder. These pages have a selection of accessories to
help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.
These accessories are designed to make the process of recording and watching your
videos more enjoyable.
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.
If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available through toll-free ordering or by
using the order form on page 65.
AC025A Soft Carrying Case
VCC1000 Video Color Control Center
Custom compact soft case designed
especially to provide protection and utility
for your 8mm camcorder and most
accessories. Rugged fabric lined with soft
non-abrasive material and generous
padding. Has three outside pockets with
storage for lens filters, adapters, batteries,
and tapes.
The VCC1000 is two accessories in one.
The color control center allows you to
adjust the color intensity, tint, white
balance, and sharpness of tapes being
dubbed. This is especially helpful when
the original tape was produced in poor
lighting conditions or poor color settings.
The second feature – the character
generator – lets you create titles that can
be recorded on your tapes. This lets you
add a professional and/or personal touch
to your home videos.
VLP04 Color Enhancement Light
All specifications and
descriptions of accessories
are subject to change
without notice.
The VLP04 helps create brighter, sharper
pictures in very low light conditions. It
lights subjects in darkened areas or
corrects unflattering shadows. Uses
VLB04 replacement bulb.
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Optional Accessories
DCC80 Car Cord Adapter/Charger
CPS85 AC Battery Charger
C H A R G E
P O W E R
Caution: Do not use any other car cord
adapter/charger with this camcorder.
This car cord adapter/charger enables you
to operate your camcorder from your car,
truck, or RV by plugging it into the
vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. It will
also charge the BV060 battery supplied
with your camcorder or the BB150
battery.
The CPS85 battery charger plugs directly
into an AC outlet, and charges the BV060
and BB150 camcorder batteries. Because
the CPS85 operates on 100-240 volts,
50/60 Hz, it can be used virtually
anywhere in the world. A plug adapter
may be required in some countries.
Charging takes approximately 5 hours for
the BV060 (1- hour) battery or 7 hours for
the BB150 (1.4- hour) battery.
The DCC80 is specially designed to
convert power from a 24-volt or 12-volt
battery to a 6-volt output. The vehicle
does not have to be turned on for the
DCC80 to operate the camcorder.
Rechargeable Batteries
DCC06 Car Cord Adapter
BV060
BB150
These rechargeable nickel-cadmium
batteries are specifically designed for long
life. The BV060 can power your
camcorder up to 1 hour, and the BB150 up
to 1.4 hours (depending on how much you
use zoom and pause). Both can be
recharged with the AC adapter/charger
that came with your camcorder. Initial
charging and recharging takes about 1
hour for the BV060 or 1.4 hours for the
BB150.
Caution: Do not use any other car cord
adapter with this camcorder.
This car cord adapter enables you to
operate your camcorder from your car,
truck, or RV by plugging it into the
vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. The
DCC06 is specially designed to convert
power from a 24-volt or 12-volt battery to
a 6-volt output. The vehicle does not
have to be turned on for the DCC06 to
operate the camcorder.
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Optional Accessories
CRF81 RF Output Adapter
AVS80 Synchro Edit Cable
This adapter is used to connect your
camcorder to a standard TV (one without
audio/video input jacks) for playback. If
your antenna cable is the flat twin-lead
This cable attaches to the camcorder to
provide video and audio outputs for
type attached by two screws, you will also dubbing, or for direct input to a monitor
need a 300-75 ohm transformer, such as
193983. If your TV has 300-ohm VHF
receiver. It can also control the start/stop
functions of a VCR with a compatible
screw terminals, you will need an optional 2.5mm PAUSE, EDIT, EDIT IN, EDIT
75-300 ohm transformer, such as AH011.
IN/OUT, or SYNC jack when copying a
tape.
VAA008 Audio/Video Input Cable
193983 Cable Transformer
The 193983 is used to connect a standard
300-ohm antenna twin-lead to a standard
round 75-ohm connector on the RF output
adapter, a VCR, or TV.
This audio/video input cable will enable
you to use your camcorder to record from
other devices which have audio/video
output jacks (such as another VCR,
camcorder, or TV monitor). This makes
it convenient to copy tapes or record a
television broadcast. The VAA008’s plug
is specially designed so other cables and
accessories can be plugged into the
camcorder at the same time.
AH011 Cable Transformer
The AH011 is used to connect a standard
round 75-ohm antenna cable to the
300-ohm screw terminals on a TV.
AH25 Y-Adapter
All specifications and descriptions of
accessories are subject to change
without notice.
This Y-adapter allows you to connect
your camcorder’s mono audio cable to a
stereo TV or VCR.
63
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Optional Accessories
AC088 Super Lightweight Tripod
Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, such as AC088, will keep the camcorder
steady and produce excellent video results.
This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The quick-
release mount makes it easy to attach or remove the camcorder. The grooved,
tubular 3-section leg design folds down to 26" when not in use. Rubber feet
allow for sure footing.
PUSH
Cautions: Before using a tripod, make sure it is stable enough to hold the camcorder
without falling over. Do not transport camcorder attached to tripod.
When attaching your camcorder to a tripod, be careful not to force the tripod screw
into the camcorder’s tripod mounting hole.
The tripod screw should not protrude into the camcorder more than approximately
three-eighth (3/8) inch. Forcing the screw could damage the mounting hole on the
bottom of the camcorder.
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Accessory Order Form
Order Form for Camcorder Model Pro884HB
Description
Part No. Price
Qty. Total
Soft Camcorder Case
Super Lightweight Tripod
75-300 Cable Transformer
Y-Adapter
AC025A $ 59.95
AC088
AH011
AH25
$ 39.95
$
$
1.90
1.95
Synchro Edit Cable
Rechargeable Battery
Rechargeable Battery
AC Battery Charger
RF Output Adapter
Car Cord Adapter
Car Adapter/Charger
Audio/Video Input Cable
Video Color Control Center
Color Enhancement Light
Replacement Bulb for Light
300-75 Cable Transformer
Shoulder Strap
AVS80
BB150
BV060
CPS85
CRF81
DCC06
DCC80
$ 54.95
$ 79.95
$ 59.95
$ 84.95
$ 49.95
$ 74.95
$169.95
VAA008 $ 36.35
VCC1000 $349.00
VLP04
VLB04
193983
215770
221361
221363
221364
221395
$ 49.95
$ 14.95
$
6.95
$ 13.95
$189.95
$ 49.95
$ 12.95
$ 39.95
AC Adapter/Charger
Replacement Remote
DC Cable
Audio/Video Output Cable
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Total Merchandise ($10 Minimum Order)......................$__________
Sales Tax.........................................................................$__________
We are required by law to collect the appropriate
sales tax for each individual state, county, and
locality to which the merchandise is being sent.
Shipping, Handling, and Insurance.................................$
5.00
Total Amount Enclosed ................................................$__________
Use VISA or MasterCard preferably. Money order
or check must be in U.S. currency only. No COD
or cash.
Please complete other side also
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Accessory Order Form
Charge your order on your VISA
or MasterCard by
filling in below
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD
®
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your VISA card
My card expires:
s
r
r
TM
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your MasterCard
Copy Number
above your
name on
My card
expires:
MasterCard
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Print or type your name and
address clearly. This will be
your mailing label.
A complete and correct
order will save you days
of waiting.
Name:
Street:
Apt:
Zip:
City:
State:
Please make sure that both sides of this form
have been filled out completely.
• Allow 8 weeks for delivery.
• All accessories are subject to availability.
• Where applicable, we will ship a superseding model.
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Accessory Order Form
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.
If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by
telephone or direct-by-mail.
United States and Canada Orders
To place your order by phone, have your Visa or MasterCard ready and call the toll-
free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM Eastern Standard Time. Use this
number only to place an order for accessory items listed on this order form.
1 – 800 – 338 – 0376
Most times your order will be shipped UPS within 72 hours of receipt. If ever it is not
possible to ship within 30 days, we will notify you with an update on your order and
an option to cancel.
To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with credit
card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to Thomson
Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address:
Video Accessories
PO Box 8419
Ronks, PA 17573
For more information on these accessories (or current prices), write to the
following address:
Video Accessories Customer Service
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Distributor & Special Products
2000 Clements Bridge Rd
Deptford, NJ 08096-2088
International Orders
This offer is valid only in the United States and Canada. For international orders,
please send your request for a price quotation (not an order) to:
International Customer Service
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Distributor & Special Products
2000 Clements Bridge Rd
Deptford, NJ USA 08096-2088
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Trouble Checks
Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults” that you can easily correct without
the help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies.
Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Compact Camcorder
Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the
simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
Trouble
Checks and Adjustments
No power
• If using battery, it may need to be recharged.
• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a
working outlet.
Won’t record or
playback
• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a
working outlet.
• There may be no cassette in the camcorder.
• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.
• The cassette tape may be broken, try another cassette.
• You may have reached the end of the cassette, try rewinding it.
Won’t playback
Won’t record
• CAM/OFF/VCR switch must be in VCR.
• Safety tab has been closed. (See page 22.)
• CAM/OFF/VCR switch must be in CAM.
No picture in
viewfinder
• Remove lens cap.
• CAM/OFF/VCR switch must be in CAM.
Tape stops during
rewind or fast forward
• Time-counter memory may be on. Whenever an “M”
appears with the time-counter display, the camcorder will
stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter reads
“0:00:00M”. Press the REW or F.F button again to
continue rewinding or fast forwarding, or press DISPLAY
on remote to turn off memory-stop feature.
Rewind, fast forward,
or play does not
operate
• Make sure titler does not appear in viewfinder. Press
TITLE ON/OFF on remote to remove titler.
• Make sure the flashing cursor does not appear in the date or
time display. Press DATE/TITLE to remove the flashing
cursor and start the clock.
Camcorder remains in
“stop action”
• Press thumb trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on remote) to return
to normal playback.
Picture appears with
black bars
• Make sure 16X9 mode is not selected. Details are on
page 37.
Viewfinder displays
are out of focus
• Try adjusting eyepiece focus control. See page 31.
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Trouble Checks
Trouble
Checks and Adjustments
Poor auto-focus
operation
• Make sure FOCUS does not appear in viewfinder. Press
FOCUS F and N buttons together to turn on auto focus.
See pages 34-35.
• Scene is dark. Auto-focus may not work under this
condition. See pages 34-35 for details on manual focus.
• Lens is smudged, and image appears unfocused.
• Viewfinder eyepiece focus is misadjusted. See page 31.
Date and/time, date, or
date and title were
recorded on tape
• Date and time or date will be recorded on tape whenever
they appear in the viewfinder. Press DATE/TITLE button
to remove them from viewfinder when recording.
• Auto date or auto title feature turned on. See page 29.
Date and/or time are
incorrect
• Camcorder’s internal battery may need replacing.
See page 30.
• Date and/or time may need to be set. See page 28.
Remote control
will not operate
camcorder
• Aim remote at remote sensor on camcorder.
• Remote must be within 13 feet from the camcorder to
operate it.
• Remote control cell may need replacing. See page 11.
• CAM/OFF/VCR switch must be in CAM or VCR for
camcorder to operate.
• Camcorder’s remote control sensor is exposed to direct
sunlight or strong artificial light. This may interfere with
operation of camcorder by remote.
Camcorder will not
record from audio/
video connector
• CAM/OFF/VCR switch must be in CAM.
• Check cable connections and make sure other component
is playing. See pages 48-49.
Camcorder turns off
during operation
• Camcorder remained in pause for five minutes. Turn
camcorder back on.
• Rechargeable battery needs recharging or alkaline
batteries need replacing.
Recorded audio too low • Subject too far from camcorder.
No picture during
playback in VCR
• If the cassette was recorded in high-band 8mm, it must be
played back on a high-band VCR or camcorder.
Recording not in high-
band 8mm
• High-band 8mm cassette was not used. If a standard 8mm
cassette is used, recording will be standard 8mm.
Cannot hear both
channels of sound on
tape copies
• Tape copied to or from mono VCR or camcorder. May
need Y-adapter. See pages 48-49 and 56-57.
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User Information
This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, and RF lighting
device, pursuant to Part 15 and 18 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful
• Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.
• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet
on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced
radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by Thomson Consumer
Electronics, Inc. may void the user’s
FCC authority to operate this
interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the
following measures:
camcorder.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard
entitled “Digital Apparatus”, ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.
Cet appareil numérique respecte les limites de bruits radioélectriques applicables aux
appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans la norme sur le matériel brouilleur:
“Appareils Numériques”, NMB-003 édictée par le ministre des Communications.
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Customer Assistance and Service
Thomson provides a toll-free telephone
You can reach Thomson at the
following number:
number to help you with any problems
you may encounter with your camcorder.
Many can be diagnosed over the phone,
and if necessary, a replacement unit can
be shipped to you. Please have your
camcorder model/serial number and date
of purchase ready when you call. If your
unit is out of warranty, we will quote the
cost of an exchange unit to you.
800-283-6503
(Toll free inside U.S.A.)
Our toll-free Camcorder number
operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST
Monday – Friday
for U.S. customers only
Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange
If we are unable to resolve your problem
over the phone, we will gladly service
your unit or exchange it for a new or
refurbished camcorder. Refer to the
limited warranty on the reverse side to
learn about your specific rights and
responsibilities.
Always consult Thomson and get a
Return Authorization number before
returning anything! Obtain a Return
Authorization (RA) number from the
telephone representative before returning
your equipment to avoid delays,
accounting errors, or even loss of your
unit.
Important information to customers who ship defective equipment to
Thomson Consumer Electronics
The Thomson representative who
authorized the return of your equipment
will give you an RA number over the
phone. They will also provide you with
instructions on where and how to return
your camcorder. Write the number in
large, clear characters on the outside of
the box. To avoid confusion and
and model/serial number of your
camcorder. These numbers are located
on the bottom of your unit. If your
camcorder is within the warranty period,
please provide a copy of the bill of sale
to verify purchase date. Use the original
box and packing material to protect the
equipment from damage in shipment.
misunderstandings, shipments without an
RA number clearly visible on the outside
of the box will be returned to you at your
expense.
For your protection, insure all shipments
for full replacement value and use a
reliable shipper. Thomson assumes no
responsibility for warranty shipments
from the customer to the factory if not
shipped in the manner prescribed by
Thomson.
Include a brief note describing the
problem and any conversations about the
problem you have had with Thomson
personnel. Include your name, address
(continued on next page)
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Limited Warranty
What your warranty covers:
• Any defect in materials or
workmanship.
which validates date of purchase to
the exchange location and you will be
provided the new or refurbished unit.
4. If the repairs were covered by your
warranty, you will not be billed.
For how long after your purchase:
• 90 days for labor charges.
• One year for parts.
If you are not located near an exchange
point:
What we will do:
1. Provide your Discover, MasterCard or
Visa account number and expiration
date to our phone representative. This
is for security purposes. If we receive
your unit including all accessories
within 14 days from the date you were
provided a Return Authorization
number, only items not covered by
warranty will be charged to your
account. IF YOUR UNIT
During the initial 90 days
• Exchange your camcorder with a new
or, at our option, a refurbished unit or
at your option, repair your camcorder
at no cost to you.
After the 90 days and within one year
• Exchange your camcorder with a new
or, at our option, a refurbished unit or
at your option, repair your camcorder.
Parts will be provided at no charge,
but you will be responsible for the cost
of labor required for the repair.
INCLUDING ALL ACCESSORIES
IS NOT RECEIVED WITHIN 14
DAYS, THE SUGGESTED
RETAIL VALUE OF THE
CAMCORDER AND/OR
How you get service:
• Call 1-800-283-6503 and have your
unit’s date of purchase and
ACCESSORIES WILL BE
model/serial number ready. The
model/serial number information is on
the bottom of your camcorder.
CHARGED TO YOUR CREDIT
CARD. This amount will be credited
if the unit is subsequently received.
2. We will send you a replacement unit
next business day delivery.
3. You will receive an invoice packed
with the replacement product, but will
not be charged for the unit portion of
the invoice amount if we receive your
unit including all accessories within
14 days from the date you were
provided the RA number. Any labor
and parts charges not covered by our
warranty will be included and charged
against your account.
• A representative will troubleshoot
your problem over the phone. If the
representative determines that you
should receive a replacement unit, you
will be provided with a Return
Authorization (RA) number and the
location of a nearby exchange point if
one exists. No returns will be
accepted without the RA number.
To receive a replacement camcorder
before you return yours:
If you are located near an
exchange point:
1. We will send a replacement unit to the
exchange point next business day
delivery.
2. The exchange location will notify you
of its arrival.
3. Take your unit, including all
accessories, and your bill of sale
4. Ship the unit back to us along with all
accessories included with your
camcorder using the replacement
unit’s carton. Shipping instructions
will be included in the carton along
with your RA number, which will
allow you to easily ship the unit back
to us. Make sure you insure your
shipment in case of damage or loss.
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Limited Warranty
Include with the shipment:
• A copy of your dated bill of sale to
verify your unit’s warranty
eligibility.
• A brief note describing your
camcorder problem.
To have your Camcorder repaired by
an Authorized RCA Camcorder
Servicenter:
• Check with your dealer or call 1-800-
336-1900 for the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter nearest you.
• Take your unit to the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter of your choice.
• Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder
Servicenter representative your sales
receipt or other, evidence of purchase.
• Pick up your camcorder when repairs
are complete.
• Your name, address and phone
number.
Return transportation, storage, and
handling costs and insurance are your
sole responsibility. We accept no
liability in case of damage or loss.
To receive a replacement unit after we
have received your unit:
What your warranty does not cover:
• Adjustment of customer controls.
• Damage from misuse or neglect.
• A unit that has been modified or
incorporated into other products or is
used for institutional or other
commercial purposes.
• Battery for clock and other features.
• Cleaning of video/audio heads.
• Camcorders purchased or serviced
outside the U.S.A.
• Return transportation, storage and
handling costs of your unit,
including insurance for loss or
damage.
• Acts of God, such as but not limited to
lightning damage.
1. Write the RA number on the outside of
the carton used to return the unit.
Make sure you insure your
shipment in case of damage or loss.
2. Carefully pack the unit along with all
accessories included with your
camcorder, using the original box and
packing material if possible.
3. Include with the shipment:
• A copy of your dated bill of sale to
verify your unit’s warranty
eligibility.
• A brief note describing your
camcorder problem.
• Your name, address and phone
number.
Product Registration:
Return transportation, storage, and
handling costs, and insurance are your
responsibility. We accept no liability in
case of damage or loss.
• Please complete and mail the Product
Registration Card packed with your
camcorder. It will make it easier to
contact you should it ever be
4. Include a cashier’s check or money
order for payment if there are any out
of warranty labor or parts charges
which were indicated by the
representative, and you elected not to
use your credit card.
5. Upon receipt of your product, a new or
refurbished unit will be shipped to you
next day delivery.
necessary. The return of the card is
not required for warranty coverage.
How State Law relates to warranty:
• This warranty gives you specific legal
rights and you may have other rights
that vary from state to state.
If you purchased your Camcorder
outside the United States:
• This warranty does not apply. Contact
your dealer for warranty information.
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Specifications
General
AC Adapter/Charger
Power requirement: 6VDC
Power consumption: 5.9 W (when
FOCUS indicator appears in
viewfinder)
Weight: 1.89 lbs. (without battery
pack, lens hood, lens cap, and
cassette)
Power requirement: 100-240 Volts,
50-60 Hz.
Power consumption: 20 W (Max)
Weight: 12 Ounces (330 grams)
Dimensions: 2-13/16" (W) x
1-11/16" (H) x 5-15/16" (D)
(72 x 43 x 151 mm)
Dimensions: 3-11/16" (W) x 4-3/4"
(H) x 8-5/16" (D) (94 x 120 x 211mm)
Tripod Mount
One 1/4" x 20 threaded hole
Camera Section
Scanning: 525 Lines/60 Fields/30
Frames
Required Minimum Illumination: 1 lux
Lens: F/1.6 12:1 (4~48mm)
Image Sensor: 1/4" CCD
Diameter: 46 mm
Video Recorder Section
Format: Hi-Band 8mm
Record/Playback System:
Two video record/playback heads
One flying erase head
Video Signal: EIA Standard NTSC
Color
Tape Speed: 14.3 mm/sec.
Video Input: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 ohm
Video Output: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 ohm
Audio Input: –7.8 dBs (316 m Vms)
Audio Output: –7.8 dBs (316 m Vms)
Fast Forward/Rewind Time: Less than
eight minutes with P6-120 cassette.
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Index
Car Cord Adapter, Optional . . . . . .20,62
Car Cord Adapter/Charger,
A/V (Audio/Video) DUB
Accessories, Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Accessories, Optional . . . . . . . . . .61-67
Accessory, Order Form . . . . . . . . .65-67
Adapter/Charger, Using . . . . . . . . . .4,14
Alkaline Batteries, Using to
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Care and Storage, Battery . . . . . . . . . .17
Care and Storage, Cassettes . . . . . . . .23
Cassette Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,23
Cassettes, Care and Storage . . . . . . . .23
Cassettes, Inserting and Removing . . .23
Cassettes, Sharing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Charging the Rechargeable Battery . .15
Chart of Title Characters . . . . . . . . . . .43
Checking Problems . . . . . . . . . . . .68-69
Cleaning the Viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . .60
Color Enhancement Light,
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-19
Audio/Video Dubbing . . . . . . . . . .44-45
Audio/Video In/Out
Audio/Video Out Jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
AUTO Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Auto Date and Title Feature . . . . . . . .29
Auto Date Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Batteries, Alkaline Using . . . . . . . .18-19
Battery, Care and Storage . . . . . . . . . .17
Battery, Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Battery Level Indicator . . . . . . .19,32-33
Battery Marker Switch . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Battery Power, Checking . . . . . . . . . .19
Battery Safety Precautions . . . . . . .17,19
Buttons, Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-13
Camcorder Operating Controls . . . . .8-9
Camcorder, Powering . . . . . . . . . .14-20
Camcorder, Turning On . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-51
Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Copying Tapes . . . . . . . .10,48-49,56-57
Creating a Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Date and Time Display . . . . . . . . .28-29
Date and Time, Setting . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Date Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32-33
Date Search Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
DC Car Cords, Optional . . . . . . . .20-21
Displays in Viewfinder . . . . . . . . .32-33
Dubbing, Audio and Video . . . . . .44-45
EIS (Electronic Image Stabilizer)
EIS (Electronic Image Stabilizer)
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32,39
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Index
F.F and F.FWD (Fast Forward)
Operating Controls, Camcorder . . . . .8-9
Operation, First-Time . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9
Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . .61-67
Order Form, Accessory . . . . . . . . .65-67
Pause Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
. . . . . . . . . . . .46-47,49,54-55,57,59
Playback Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Playback on a TV With
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42-43,46-47,54-55
Fade Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32,38
Fading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
First-Time Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9
Flying Erase Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
FOCUS Indicator . . . . . . . . .32-33,34-35
Focusing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34-35
Hand Strap, Adjusting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Handstrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,9
AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks . . . . .56-57
Playback on a TV
8
High Band 8mm, Recording . . . . . . . .10
Holding the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Included Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Inserting Rechargeable Battery . . . . . .16
Installing Clock Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Lens Hood, Removing . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Letterbox Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . .72-73
Macro Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Maintenance and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Making Better Videos . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Manual Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Memory-Stop Feature . . . . . . . . . .40-41
NO TAPE Display . . . . . . . . . . . . .32-33
Without Audio/Video Inputs . .58-59
Playing Back High Band 8mm . . . . . .10
Plug Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Power Zoom Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Powering the Camcorder . . . . . . . .14-20
Problem Solving . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-69
Product Registration .Inside Front Cover
Program AE (Auto Exposure)
Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Rechargeable Battery, Inserting
and Removing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Recording from VCR or TV
Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48-49
Recording High Band 8mm . . . . . . . .10
Recording Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Recording Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Registration Card . . .Inside Front Cover
Remote Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-13
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Index
Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-13
Removing Rechargeable Battery . . . .16
. . . . . . . . . .40-41,42-43,46-4754-55
RF Output Adapter, Optional . . . . .58,63
Searching, Visual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Sensor, Remote Control . . . . . . . . . .9,11
Setting the Time and Date . . . . . . . . . .28
Sharing Cassettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Shoulder Strap, Attaching . . . . . . . . . .52
Shutter Speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-69
Status Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32-33
Stereo Microphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8,24
STOP Button
Tips, Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Tips, Traveling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
TITLE Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
TITLE ON/OFF Button . . . .12-13,42-43
Title Character Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Titler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42-43
Traveling Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Trouble Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-69
Turning On the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . .6
Unpacking the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . .3
User Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Video Cassettes . . . . . . . . . . . . .10,22-23
Video/Audio Dubbing . . . . . . . . . .44-45
Video/Audio In/Out
Video/Audio Out Jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Viewfinder Displays . . . . . . . . . . .32-33
Viewfinder Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Visual Searching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Warranty, Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . .72-73
Wipe Fade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Zoom Level Indicator . . . . . . . .32-33,36
Synchro Edit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46-47
Tape Copying . . . . . . . . .10,48-49,56-57
Tilt Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Time and Date Display . . . . . . . . .28-29
Time and Date, Setting . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Time Counter with Memory
Stop Feature . . . . . . . . . .32-33,40-41
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Need Assistance? We want to help!
U.S. Consumers:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty . . . . . .800-283-6503
Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-336-1900
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-338-0376
Canadian Consumers:
English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-522-0338
French . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-522-0445
If your camcorder needs service, please
contact your dealer or the nearest Servicenter
from the yellow pages. Please do not send
any products to the Indianapolis address listed
in this manual or on the carton. This will only
add delays in service for your product.
10330 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290
©
1995 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
®
Trademark(s) Registered
Marca(s) Registrada(s)
Printed in Japan
Part Number 95-Pro884HB-1
QR12997
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